### Di Maria's Season Rating: Benfica 2017-2018

#### Introduction

In the illustrious career of Argentine footballer Lionel Messi, his performances for various clubs have been celebrated and critiqued across the globe. One such season that stands out is the 2017-2018 campaign with Portuguese powerhouse FC Benfica. This analysis aims to provide an in-depth look at how Di Maria performed during this period.

#### Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

1. **Goals**: During his tenure with Benfica, Di Maria scored a total of 25 goals in 44 league appearances.

- He contributed significantly to Benfica’s offensive prowess, often finding space between defenders and creating opportunities for teammates.

2. **Assists**: Di Maria provided 16 assists throughout the season, which helped level up the performance of his teammates and set up many more scoring chances.

- His ability to distribute the ball effectively was crucial in orchestrating attacks and supporting his team.

3. **Tackles**: In terms of defensive contributions, Di Maria made 15 tackles, demonstrating his commitment to protecting the defense while also contributing to the midfield.

- His presence on the pitch was vital for maintaining order and preventing对手 from gaining control over the game.

4. **Key Matches**

- The standout match came against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League semifinal. Di Maria scored two goals, including one in extra time, helping Benfica advance to the final.

- Another notable performance was his hat-trick in a friendly against Real Madrid,Football Full Platform showcasing his versatility and skill on the field.

#### Impact on Team Success

Di Maria’s impact on Benfica was undeniable. His goals and assists were instrumental in their pursuit of the league title and the UEFA Champions League qualification.

- The team finished third in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, narrowly missing out on the top spot due to a tie-breaker.

- Their success in European competitions, particularly in the Champions League, was partly due to Di Maria’s contributions.

#### Challenges and Criticisms

While Di Maria was praised for his attacking prowess, there were some challenges he faced during his time at Benfica.

- Some critics pointed out that he struggled with injuries throughout the season, affecting his form and overall performance.

- There were occasional moments where his style of play might have been criticized as overly aggressive or risky.

#### Conclusion

Lionel Messi’s 2017-2018 season with Benfica was marked by significant achievements, including scoring 25 goals and providing 16 assists. While there were challenges, his impact on the team’s success was evident. As he continues to evolve and adapt, it will be interesting to see how his performance develops in future seasons.

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